Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has reaffirmed his respect for the people of the state, describing them as his “benevolent employers” whose views must be heard and respected in the running of government.
Oyebanji stated this on Thursday at a town hall meeting with stakeholders from the Ekiti South Senatorial District held in Igbara-Odo, Ekiti Southwest Local Government Area.
The meeting was organised as part of consultations ahead of the preparation of the 2027 Ekiti State Budget and provided stakeholders with an opportunity to present their developmental needs and priorities to the state government.
The governor commended the people of Ekiti for their support and sacrifices over the past four years, saying the achievements recorded by his administration would not have been possible without their cooperation and trust.
He said the government would continue to listen to the people and incorporate their views into its development agenda.
“I have absolute respect for Ekiti people and will never disrespect them. You put us in this position; you are our employers. Your voices must be heard and respected.
“This engagement is not a mere formality but a deliberate effort to incorporate your inputs into government’s development agenda,” Oyebanji said.
The governor also announced plans to reintroduce the five-kilometre road project across local government areas to improve connectivity, particularly in rural communities, and stimulate economic activities.
He also promised to accelerate the disbursement of financial support to traders and artisans to boost commerce, entrepreneurship and productivity across the state.
Oyebanji said human capital development would remain a major priority of his administration, while promising improved investment in electricity, roads, education and other critical infrastructure.
Oyebanji promises development in Ekiti East
Addressing concerns about Ekiti East Local Government Area, the governor described the council as a strategic gateway to the northern part of the country.
He pledged to attract private sector investments to the area as part of efforts to accelerate economic development and create more opportunities for residents.
Oyebanji also agreed with stakeholders’ demands for improved electricity supply, road connectivity and educational facilities.
Stakeholders from Ayekire, Ekiti Southwest and Ekiti East local government areas called for the revival of the five-kilometre road initiative.
They also demanded urgent government intervention in erosion control, electricity expansion, healthcare and education, as well as the establishment of a higher institution in the senatorial district.
Representatives from Ikere, Ise/Orun and Emure also appealed for increased investment in roads, electricity, healthcare and education.
They urged the government to strengthen security measures, particularly in border communities, including sustained forest-combing operations to tackle criminal activities.
PWDs commend Oyebanji’s inclusive recruitment
Meanwhile, persons living with disabilities commended the Oyebanji administration for its inclusive recruitment policy.
A representative of People Living with Disabilities, Damola Ogunleye, praised the government for allocating five per cent of positions to persons with disabilities during its recent recruitment into the civil service and teaching service.
According to Ogunleye, the policy has improved the socio-economic wellbeing of persons with disabilities and strengthened inclusion in governance.
Ekiti has 958 primary, 200 secondary schools
The Commissioner for Education, Dr Olabimpe Aderiye, disclosed that Ekiti State currently has 958 public primary schools and 200 public secondary schools.
She said the state government was implementing measures, including free education and partnerships with private institutions, to reduce school dropout rates and improve learning outcomes.
The town hall meeting was attended by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro; Chief of Staff, Oyeniyi Adebayo; Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi; members of the State Executive Council; local government chairmen; traditional rulers; political leaders and community representatives.
